ALEX McLEISH has been SACKED by Scotland after an SFA meeting at Hampden today.

The former Rangers manager had a turbulent second spell in charge of the national team and his time in the hotseat has been brought to an end.

Alex McLeish has been axed by ScotlandReuters

Big Eck took over from Gordon Strachan last year but a poor run of results including the horror 3-0 defeat in Kazakhstan saw fans turn on the 60-year-old.

A disappointing 1-0 defeat to Costa Rica on Eck’s return to the Scotland dugout had left fans unconvinced before dismal performances in Peru and Mexico in post-season friendlies.

Speaking on the decision, McLeish said: “I am grateful for the opportunity to have managed my country for a second time and leave knowing that I gave my all in the pursuit of success.

“I am proud that together we finished top of our UEFA Nations League group and qualified for the UEFA EURO 2020 play-offs, which gives us a real opportunity to reach a major tournament for the first time in over 20 years.

‘I GAVE MY ALL’

“I am also pleased to have given many younger players a first taste of international football that will stand them – and the country – in good stead for the future.

“I would like to thank those players who showed a passion for wearing the dark blue, my assistants, Peter, James and Stevie, for their contribution over the past year.

“I would also like to extend my gratitude to the entire national team backroom staff and my friends and colleagues at the Scottish FA.

“Finally, I would like to thank the Scotland fans for their unwavering support of the team and look forward to taking my place among them in the future.”

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SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell said in a statement: “The decision to part company was not an easy one, especially given Alex’s status as a Scotland Hall of Fame member, earning 77 international caps, having played in three World Cups and taken charge of the national team for two spells.

“It was only taken after full consideration by the board and after an honest and respectful conversation between myself and Alex earlier in the week.

“Ultimately, the performances and results as a whole in the past year – and, in particular, the manner of the defeat in Kazakhstan – did not indicate the progress expected with a squad we believe to be capable of achieving more.”

Scotland fans wanted Alex McLeish sacked during their win over San MarinoKenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowScotland suffered a 3-0 humiliation to Kazakhstan in MarchKenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow